Lifter Noise

[aaseigler]

Recently changed my oil and now I have a noticable tapping noise under my vavlve cover. I used 10w-30 instead of 5w-20 that the cap reccommends. Could this be the issue or is just due to the high mileage of the car?

 

[Pablo]

Go back to 5W-20.

 

[Johnny]

What kind of car is it?

 

[aaseigler]

2001 ford escort

 

[Drivebelt]

Did you use synthetic 10W-30?

 

[drivewaytech]

Happened to me on my 2006 Chrysler 2.7L V6. I mixed 3 quarts Synthetic 5w30 and 2 quarts 5W-20. It was not a constant tick, but however would manifest after long periods of driving (long errand day). I have gone back to straight 5-20. Just to make clear, the ticking coincided with use of the heavier mix, but may not be the cause. However, stick to the 5W-20, those engineers know a little bit about the engine they designed.

 

[Greggy_D]

Originally Posted By: drivewaytech
However, stick to the 5W-20, those engineers know a little bit about the engine they designed.


And I bet you those engineers originally designed that engine to use xW-30.

 

[Triple_Se7en]

Need more info cuz' 10W-30 should not create lifter noise in that engine. Does it make lifter noise at operating temps? Are you using the recommended Motorcraft oil filter? Some of the Ford engines need the silicon ADBV filter. If none of the above, I'll bet there's also a chance the engine was not cared for properly in the past.

Return to 5W-20 - but Auto-Rx, new lifters or an oil filter model change may be needed in your future.

 

[MGregoir]

At startup the 10W-30 is too thick to get pumped into the lifters/lash adjusters effectively, it should go away once the engine is hot. If it remains once the engine is hot, they could be clogged up. A 5W-20 is thinner when cold or hot so it could help on both fronts.